Continuing medical education for European general practitioners in doctor-patient relationship skills and psychosocial issues

The objective of this study was to identify the types of continuing medical education (CME) available to European general practitioners in doctor-patient relationship skills and in the psychosocial content of practice. Two methods were used: (1) a questionnaire, mailed to the 26 council members of the European Association of Teachers of General Practice (EURACT) and (2) observation and inquiry during visits to CME coordinators in several countries. Sixteen of 23 responding EURACT members reported CME activities in the areas of interest. Most reported programs that address both doctor-patient relationship skills and psychosocial content. Programs studied in three countries illustrated in detail the types of CME that were reported elsewhere: small-group workshops, intensive learning by one or more physicians over a prolonged time period, and national-level CME activities. The activities identified in this study represent potential resources for CME planners throughout Europe. The findings suggest several challenges that have also been identified in the U.S.: (1) to make this type of CME more available to primary care practitioners; (2) to structure general practice visits so that there is sufficient time to develop doctor-patient relationships and to address psychosocial problems; and (3) to develop processes for sharing educational ideas in these two areas.